My Character Sprite Workflow (and Pose Study Timelapse!)

Making pixel art character sprites can be a bit of a mystery, probably because each artist has their own way of going about it. In this video I share my preferred method of creating a sprite from scratch and discuss the objectives and design choices along the way!

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Check out my art here:

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I commissioned music in this video from these fantastic artists:

BJG title animation theme music by Failpositive:

Additional background music by mcguy215:

[PixelOverloadChannel]

Not to flex or anything, but I can make a pretty sweet 1 by 1 pixel drawing every time I take a photo with my phone.

[ORtr]

"If you're beginning, start with something small"
Me, trying a 256x256 for like my third drawing: what?

[psychic_digit]

This is not only good for pixel art, but I also think it’s pretty good for pencil and paper art too. Thank you!

[kosnk]

"Wait, how do legs work again?" 9:50 :D
Love your videos: funny, humble and very useful!

[andrewsprojectsinnovations]

13:51 This describes my own experience perfectly. I couldn't draw human figures beyond the "outlined stick figure" level if my life depended on it, but one day I decide to design some assets for a game styled within the graphical limits of the classic Super Nintendo. The character spritework was surprisingly natural given my aforementioned drawing ability. Sure it was still challenging and I have plenty of room to improve, but it wasn't the same futile struggle as more standard drawing. I'm still trying to decide whether that's just how my brain works or a result of pixel art's "easy to learn, hard to master" nature?

I found your videos while specifically seeking out advice regarding pixel art and sprite design, and I can't deny their quality. Your advice transcends stylistic differences and has greatly improved my pixel art in the mere days since I discovered your channel. Keep up the incredible work!

[mohammadislam]

This channel is criminally underrated! We need to show more support to brandon

[pixelricebowl]

The algorithm blessed me with one of your videos and now I'm devouring your tutorials. As an amateur pixel artist/developer, I'm very grateful for these!

[issimc]

after binging your entire catalogue of videos in under a few days it feels like I've waited for your next upload. This did not disappoint in the slightest, thank you so much dude <3

[aaronbarrantes]

I can’t express how thankful I’m with your content, it have helped me a lot to grow in this pixel art journey that I love

[underlock]

I thought no one was interested in pixel art until i found your channel i am so glad that there is a community and in that community there is a great artist like you. Keep up the great work!

[atichii]

this is definitely the best character design tutorial ive seen so far. its so detail and you explain everything from the beginning to the end. im so gonna practice this and see how well this works for me.

[Moonlitfr]

+1
and i'll say it once again, I'M SO GLAD I FOUND YOUR CHANNEL!!!!
this is exactly what I needed a breakdown of sprite workflow from the perspective of someone who's been doing it way longer than I have.
This video is incredible resourceful and I'm beyond psyched to see your next pixel art videos.
I can see my sprites, coloring, workflow, and more improving all thanks to you! PLEASE KEEP THEM COMING

[noiJadisCailleach]

I love the way you work. It's solidly systematic and orderly.
Whether it's pixelart, scripting or video editing.
I'm guessing you're the type of guy who isn't satisfied and/or happy without giving his everything in anything you do. XD
I'm pretty sure you're someone everyone loves working with.
Compared to everyone else, in my book, your vids are like the gold standard for entertaining + informative rn.

[fruitspunch]

Did you study something art related?
You seem to be very knowledgeable about anatomy, shapes, color composition, and so

I really enjoy your videos, but I have to say that I really applaud the way you convey your message.
Exceptional content

Keep it up! :)

[ClaramayNivetta]

This helps a lot, thanks for the sketching tips!

[anfi]

i've been waiting this video for a lot, keep up eith your content.

[bryanpritchard]

This is great, thanks for sharing. I know there's a lot of 'pixel art' out there but its great to see people sharing their workflows and helping people get into the process!

[macabrerapkz]

I wish you to grow exponentially, this is highly educational and soothing at the same time! Plus the fact that you use only standard mac trackpad is awesome!

[rogeriosilva]

Hey man you truly are an inspiration. You nailed that sitting position!!! Hope your channel gets bigger :)

[panskii]

His vids are so good!!! Keep up the good work